Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad Recipe

This chicken avocado caprese salad is what I make when I want something fresh and filling without turning on the oven for very long. It’s light but satisfying, and it feels like a full meal without being heavy. I usually make it on days when I want dinner to feel calm and put-together, even if I don’t have much time or energy to spare.

I love classic caprese flavors, but on their own they don’t always feel like enough for a meal. Adding chicken and avocado turned it into something more substantial without losing that clean, fresh feeling. After a few tries adjusting proportions, this version became my go-to because every ingredient actually earns its place.

Recipe Origin or Trivia

Caprese salad traditionally features tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. Modern variations often add protein or extra vegetables to turn it into a complete meal, especially in American home cooking where salads frequently double as entrées.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Fresh and filling: Light but still satisfying
• Quick to assemble: Minimal cooking involved
• Balanced flavors: Creamy, juicy, and savory
• Great for warm weather: No heavy dressing
• Meal-prep friendly: Easy to prep components ahead
• Naturally gluten-free: No swaps needed
• Visually appealing: Bright, clean ingredients

Chef’s Pro Tips for Perfect Results

• Season the chicken well: It carries a lot of the flavor
• Use ripe avocados: Texture matters here
• Slice just before serving: Keeps everything fresh
• Finish lightly: Don’t overdress

Kitchen Tools You’ll Need

1. Cutting board: For slicing ingredients
2. Sharp knife: Clean cuts make a difference
3. Skillet or grill pan: For cooking chicken
4. Large bowl or platter: For assembling
5. Small bowl: For dressing

Ingredients in This Recipe

1. Cooked chicken breast: Adds protein and substance
2. Fresh mozzarella: Creamy and mild
3. Cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet
4. Ripe avocado: Adds richness and texture
5. Fresh basil: Brings everything together
6. Olive oil: Light, flavorful base
7. Balsamic glaze or vinegar: Adds brightness
8. Salt: Enhances all flavors
9. Black pepper: Gentle warmth

Ingredient Substitutions

• Chicken breast → grilled chicken thighs: Juicier option
• Fresh mozzarella → burrata: Extra creamy
• Cherry tomatoes → sliced heirloom tomatoes: More variety
• Balsamic glaze → lemon juice: Brighter, less sweet

Ingredient Spotlight

• Avocado: Adds creaminess without heaviness
• Mozzarella: Balances acidity and richness

Chicken Avocado Caprese Salad

This dish features tender grilled chicken slices combined with creamy avocado, fresh mozzarella, and basil leaves. It is assembled with minimal cooking, showcasing the textures of crispy, juicy, and creamy elements, resulting in a vibrant, colorful salad with a balanced mix of flavors and textures.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 10 minutes mins

Total Time 25 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Salad

Cuisine: Mediterranean

Calories: 380

Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients

  

• Cooked chicken breast: Adds protein and substance
• Fresh mozzarella: Creamy and mild
• Cherry tomatoes: Juicy and sweet
• Ripe avocado: Adds richness and texture
• Fresh basil: Brings everything together
• Olive oil: Light flavorful base
• Balsamic glaze or vinegar: Adds brightness
• Salt: Enhances all flavors
• Black pepper: Gentle warmth

Equipment

• Cutting board: For slicing ingredients
• Sharp knife: Clean cuts make a difference
• Skillet or grill pan: For cooking chicken
• Large bowl or platter: For assembling
• Small bowl: For dressing

Method

 

1. Cook the chicken: Season and cook until done, then slice
2. Prepare produce: Halve tomatoes, slice avocado, tear basil
3. Arrange base: Spread tomatoes and mozzarella on a platter
4. Add chicken: Layer evenly
5. Add avocado: Gently place on top
6. Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper
7. Finish: Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic just before serving

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Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

• Prep components ahead: Store separately
• Assemble before serving: Best texture
• Store leftovers: Up to 24 hours refrigerated

How to Serve This Dish

• As a main: Light but filling
• With bread: Crusty bread on the side
• For lunch: Easy and refreshing

Creative Leftover Transformations

• Wrap filling: Roll into tortillas
• Grain bowl topper: Serve over quinoa
• Pasta add-in: Toss with warm pasta

Additional Tips

• Use high-quality olive oil: Flavor shows
• Season in layers: Especially chicken
• Keep portions generous: It’s a full meal

Make It a Showstopper

• Arrange in layers: Clean presentation
• Finish with fresh basil: Bright and fragrant
• Serve on a large platter: Visual impact

Variations to Try

• Pesto chicken caprese: Drizzle pesto instead of balsamic
• Spicy version: Add chili flakes
• Mediterranean twist: Add olives
• Grilled peach add-in: Sweet contrast
• Dairy-free: Skip cheese and add extra avocado

FAQ’s

1. Can I use rotisserie chicken?: Yes
2. Is this good cold?: Yes
3. Can I make it ahead?: Prep ingredients only
4. Is this keto-friendly?: Mostly, with low-carb balsamic
5. Can I add greens?: Arugula works well
6. Does it travel well?: Short distances, chilled
7. Can I use bottled dressing?: Olive oil and balsamic are best
8. How long does it last?: About 24 hours
9. Can I double the recipe?: Easily
10. What pairs well with it?: Bread or light soup

Himani Jawa

Hi there! I’m Himani and welcome to Val’s Recipe Box. This little corner of the internet didn’t begin with me.
It began with Val my neighbourhood aunt whose kitchen held more warmth than any fireplace ever could.